Description: The Type 094, Jin NATO codename, is the second generation of Chinese ballistic submarines and is meant to provide China with a true sea-based nuclear force. Type 094 is under development to meet the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) strategic requirements well into the 21st century. The Type 094 features improved performance over current Type 092/Xia submarine with a quieter and more reliable propulsion system as well as sophisticated sensor and weapon systems. Huludao Shipyard is responsible for the construction of this new class of nuclear-powered submarines. The lead ship would be commissioned by the PLAN in the 2008/2010 timeframe with the commissioning of an additional three to five submarines expected before 2020.

These submarines are equipped with 12 (originally 16) Julang-2 Submarine Launched Ballistic Missiles (SLBM) and six 533mm torpedo tubes which can launch torpedoes and anti-ship missiles. With the Russians assisting the Chinese in the Type 094 development, it is likely that overall performance might be close to Soviet Project 667B-class submarines (NATO designation Delta series). Once deployed, Type 094 submarines and JL-2 missiles with its 8,000 km range will enable China to hit any location inside the United States soil overcoming China's lack of truly intercontinental land-based ballistic missiles.